The planning manager of a major Saudi company disputed the survey result, saying a senior executive who was receiving SR18,000 ($4,799) in the kingdom moved to Bahrain when offered SR32,000.

He also pointed out that the Nitaqat system had helped some expats, especially drivers, to get better salaries.

Companies should pay reasonable salaries to employees to enhance their productivity. Hefty salaries are given to Saudi managers, considering their nationality, not their productivity, said another executive.